Zero energy ready homes are coming

Re:Zero energy ready homes are coming by at-fates-hands on Tuesday March 07, 2023 @06:26PM (#35062867)

Well in the city where I live (Minneapolis) they've been tearing down houses in several areas of the cities where post-world war II architecture was abundant. Small houses (under 1,500 sq ft) with a small front yard and back yard. The very typical "American Dream" kind of a starter house.

Now they're getting bought up and the people are literally building houses from every end of the lot, often time getting variances for setbacks. They've decided that yards and green space are no longer important. They want wedge a three story 5K sq ft house on the same lot where a much smaller home fit.

So, I would agree and say to an extent, people are already there in terms of dealing with no lawns, now its just getting them to accept several houses on the same lot instead of their massive mcmansion.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Zero energy ready homes are coming by kitsunesoba on Tuesday March 07, 2023 @06:49PM (#35063127)

That increased demand for extra space I’m sure was bolstered by the pandemic and ongoing wave of WFH. The downsides and annoyances of small houses/apartments become much more evident when you’re staying home all of the time instead of only being there at nights and on weekends.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Zero energy ready homes are coming by germinalphrase on Tuesday March 07, 2023 @06:54PM (#35063171)

At least in my corner of South Minneapolis, the houses being built that match your description almost all appear to be built by investors, not owners (and the design incentives for investors are clearly to maximize square footage). They are also being listed at about 2x the neighboring house values.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Zero energy ready homes are coming by KptMarchewa on Wednesday March 08, 2023 @04:49AM (#35067083)

And if you accepted 5 or seven store apartments you'd have enough space for actual parks.

[ Parent | on HN ]